Numerical simulation and optimization of Q-switched 2 mum Tm,Ho:YLF laser

Numerical simulation suggests that for obtaining a giant (G) pulse from a 2.06 mum solid state Tm,Ho:YLF laser by the active Q-switching technique, the optimal Ho concentration will be higher than that used in normal operation. In simulations of 500 ns G-pulse generation maximal efficiency occurred at 6 % Tm and 1.0 % Ho, in contrast with 0.4% Ho found to be optimal for the normal pulse generation. Maximal energy output from Tm,Ho:YLF lasers can be achieved by incorporating a delay of about 0.7 ms between 0.5 ms 780 nm LD pulsed pumping and the start of Q-switched G-pulse operation.